The Restoration of the Priesthood

In 1829, Joseph Smith received the same priesthood authority that Jesus Christ had given to His Apostles. John the Baptist, who baptized Jesus, appeared to Joseph Smith and conferred on him the Aaronic Priesthood, or lesser priesthood. Peter, James, and John (three of Jesus Christ’s original Apostles) later appeared to Joseph Smith and conferred on him the Melchizedek Priesthood, or higher priesthood.

After he received priesthood authority, Joseph Smith was directed to organize the Church of Jesus Christ again on the earth. Through him, Jesus Christ again called Twelve Apostles.

Jesus Christ sent John the Baptist and then three of His Apostles to give Joseph Smith priesthood authority.

Just as Jesus Christ led His Apostles through revelation after His Resurrection, He continues to direct the Church today through living prophets and apostles. The President of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is the chosen prophet of God today. He, his counselors, and the Twelve Apostles hold the priesthood authority held by all the prophets and apostles of previous times. These men are prophets, seers, and revelators.